Today, the United States reported its first outbreak of H5N9 birdย flu in poultry at a duck farm in California. The World Organization for Animal Health reported this earlier this morning. According to the WOAH, the more common strain of H5N1 was also found at the same farm in Merced County, California.
From Hundreds to Millions
It was also noted that an estimated 119,000 birds on the same farm had been killed by Dec. 2, 2024. Highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has spread rapidly over the last few yearsโnot just in the United States, either! It has made its way around the globe, causing mass culling that started as hundreds and quickly grew to millions.
First Death Bird Flu Strain in the U.S.
Besides poultry, bird flu has now spread to various mammal species, including dairy cows in the United States. There is even a case where it caused death for a person in Louisiana. This person was an older adult of 65 years who had been exposed to wild birds and a backyard flock.
It is worth noting that since 2003, there have been an estimated 900 human infections globally caused by bird flu. According to the World Health Organization, half of these cases have ended in death, giving the virus a fatality rate of 50%, making it lethal. Experts are continuing to track and research this virus.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture & More
While the U.S. Department of Agriculture stated, โThis is the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N9 in poultry in the United States,โ there is more to know. Others, such as the USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service, are involved in investigations.ย
State Animal and Wildlife Officials are also conducting comprehensive work with them. There is now enhanced surveillance in response to this confirmed strain-related case in the United States, as well as other related bird flu events.
Things to Remember
Ensure your doctor knows if you or a loved one works on a poultry or dairy farm. You are highly encouraged to get your seasonal flu vaccination. While this will not prevent avian flu or variations, it can help reduce the risk of coinfection.
Your health and those around you is important! Please remember to always report dead or sick birds and animals to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Their phone number is 1-866-536-7592, and it is toll-free and available to the public.
